As the U.S. presidential election draws near, the atmosphere in financial markets has become increasingly volatile, leaving many investors anxious and uncertain about the future. With the election just weeks away, a significant percentage of American investors—72%, according to a recent survey from F&G—express concern over how electoral outcomes may affect the economy and, subsequently,
Personal
As we approach the mid-21st century, we are on the precipice of an unprecedented economic transition—often termed the “great wealth transfer.” With projections indicating that approximately $84 trillion will be redistributed to heirs by 2045, it is crucial for families to begin preparing for this significant change. The primary beneficiaries of this transfer are expected
As individuals approach retirement age, a prevalent concern surfaces: Am I financially prepared for retirement? The answer to this question often requires a deeper exploration of projected expenses and income sources. Christine Benz, a distinguished authority in personal finance and retirement planning at Morningstar, emphasizes a prudent approach to this daunting question. Gleaned from insights
Recent reports indicate a paradox in higher education in the United States; while the number of students qualifying for federal financial aid has risen, the interest in pursuing a four-year college degree has diminished. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center disclosed that undergraduate enrollment overall has shown an uptick, yet the number of incoming freshman
As we approach the 2025 tax year, significant changes are on the horizon for federal income tax brackets and standard deductions. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has revealed updated thresholds that will affect how taxpayers calculate their obligations. Taxpayers must understand these adjustments as they plan for the upcoming tax season. Knowing the new income
As the holiday season approaches, a familiar pattern emerges among American consumers: an eagerness to splurge on gifts. This year, projections from the National Retail Federation indicate that holiday spending could rise dramatically, reaching between $979.5 billion and $989 billion from November 1 to December 31. This anticipated surge highlights a growing trend in consumer
The financial landscape is often a subject of significant concern for investors, especially in light of political events such as presidential elections. However, insights from a recent survey conducted by Natixis Investment Managers reveal a growing apprehension surrounding public debt, which most financial advisors consider a more pressing economic threat than election outcomes. This perspective
In recent years, numerous studies have highlighted the financial struggles faced by many American consumers due to the dual pressures of inflation and escalating interest rates. These economic factors have pushed many to rely more heavily on credit, leading to a concerning trend of maxed-out credit cards. According to a report by Bankrate, roughly 37%
The United States, despite being a global economic powerhouse, consistently underperforms in the realm of retirement preparedness compared to other industrialized nations. According to the 2024 Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index, the U.S. earned a mediocre C+ grade and ranked 29th out of 48 countries, a stark reflection of systemic issues that plague its
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have long been associated with passive investment strategies, typically designed to track an index with minimal management. However, recent years have witnessed a notable shift toward actively managed ETFs, as investors increasingly seek cost-effective solutions coupled with a more nuanced approach to market participation. The evolution is not merely a passing trend;